Gracie Arizona Jiu Jitsu Academy

Gracie Arizona Jiu Jitsu Academy in Phoenix is built on a foundation of over 30 years of experience and honors the legacy of Relson Gracie. Led by Professor Nathan Zigler, a sixth-degree black belt under Relson, the academy is home to a team of 11 black belt instructors who bring decades of collective knowledge to the mats. Nathan’s journey in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu began in 1994, and his teaching reflects the discipline and self-defense focus passed down through the Gracie family. The academy offers a structured curriculum rooted in traditional Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, with programs for every stage of a practitioner’s development. Adults can progress from beginner gi classes and fundamentals, through mixed and advanced gi sessions, to competition training and high-intensity “war rounds.” No-gi classes are offered throughout the week for both adults and kids, alongside specialized sessions like women’s-only classes taught by experienced female instructors. Open mats run several days a week, giving students extra time to apply techniques and spar with teammates. Youth programs are a major part of daily life at Gracie Arizona. The “Mighty Mights” class introduces children ages 5–8 to coordination and movement, while the Juniors and Advanced Juniors classes (ages 8–14) focus on self-defense, character development, and competition skills. Kids also have access to no-gi and competition classes. The 4,300 square-foot facility is wheelchair accessible and designed to accommodate a busy schedule, with classes running seven days a week and options for private instruction and family memberships.

Amenities